Standing The Truth On Its Head
There is no jewel more precious to God’s people than the jewel of truth. Jesus defined truth, as God’s Word: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17). He also stated that the truth makes men free (John 8:32). These verses show the great value of truth. Therefore, we should “buy the truth and sell it not” (Prov.23:23).
But, sadly, there are some today who wrest (i.e., pervert) the truth of the Scriptures, whether intentionally or inadvertently, and cause others to believe denominational error (II Pe.3:16). Consider the following contrast between the truth of God’s Word and denominationalism’s version of the truth.
When Ananias came to Saul of Tarsus, Ananias said, “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). Do mainstream denominations today accept the truth of this passage? No, most do not believe sins are washed away at baptism; rather, most believe that sins are washed away first, and then one is to be baptized to express the salvation that has already occurred. So, many read Acts 22:16 as follows: “Call on the name of the Lord; have your sins washed away; be baptized; and then arise.” You will notice, however, that this is reading the passage backwards—standing the truth on its head, you might say. Ananias did NOT say what denominationalism says.
Again, denominationalism says (1) call on the name of the Lord; (2) have your sins washed away; (3) be baptized; (4) and arise. God’s Word says (1) Arise; (2) be baptized; (3) wash away thy sins; (4) call on the name of the Lord. Read it as it is written in the Bible and you have truth. Stand it on its head, read it backwards, reverse the Scriptural order, and you have denominational doctrine.
Now, which do you believe, the truth of God’s Word or denominationalism’s version of the truth? Friend, please do not stand the truth on its head.
